Featured: How to Be a Morning Person

I used to think being a night owl was the greatest thing in this world. I slept in whenever I could, took naps in the afternoon, and claimed to thrive at night where I spent the night (and morning) away writing because I believed my optimum creative state was nocturnal.

Little did I know that becoming an early bird would entirely change my life! I made the decision to become a morning person when I grew tired of waking up late, feeling that this put my relationships in jeopardy. I ate more than I should have, I barely focused when I had to fulfill tasks, and I didn’t enjoy talking a lot either. I didn’t call this living. So I re-shaped my mindset, chose to try being a morning person and conquered—changing my life around and becoming a happier person!

1. The 15-Minutes-Earlier Rule

Start tonight. Take a decision right now and start with something as little as setting your alarm 15 minutes earlier than what you’re accustomed with. For example, if you have to wake up at 6AM to go to work or school, set it for 5:45AM and keep it that way for a week. As much as you may be tempted to enable the snooze button, refrain from doing so or else you’ll know this and just go back to sleep after switching off the alarm. If you’re having a lot of difficulties getting out of bed in the mornings, place your phone somewhere away from you so that when the alarm goes off, that forces you to get out of bed to de-activate it. Each and every week, repeat the process. Set your alarm 15 minutes earlier until you reach your desired wake up call. Mine happens to be 5AM because it gives me plenty of time to do the things I enjoy doing before getting into business—and I get to watch the sunrise!

2. Do the Things You Love First

As soon as you wake up and get yourself looking presentable, use this extra time you’ve got in the morning thanks to waking up early to your advantage. Do something you often skip doing because when you arrive home, you’re too tired or busy to do. I like use this time effectively and dedicated at least an hour to reading and writing, especially when I know I have a busy day ahead and could potentially not do either of them when I get back. If you love painting, or watching a series you’re hooked on, do so in the morning. It’s one more thing checked off your To-Do list and it sets a great mood for your day!

3. Don’t Waste it With Social Media

One of the great joys of being an early riser is that most of the world is still asleep when you’re awake. Don’t waste this privilege by unnecessarily scrolling through social media because you can do this at any time of day. Use this time in a way that will be beneficial to yourself and your personal interests. Anything else can begin after 8AM!

Special thanks to losing control. and silent hearts. for editing!